Issues Opening .idml File in InDesign 2024

[misarango]

I've been having problems with a file that crashes InDesign 2024 when I insert a cross-reference.  I saved the file to .idml but can't open it. I get the message above. 

<Title renamed by MOD>

[James Gifford—NitroPress]

It's possible the file is so corrupted even the export to IDML won't allow the app to restructure and clean it up. That's... bad.

Does the file use linked assets? Have you tried moving the file and/or assets and loading it without relinking (at least, as an initial step)?

Do you know the history of the versions and platforms used to create the original, last-known-good version? That might point to a solution.

[misarango]

I did move the file and opened it without relinking, still had the same problem. This problem file was created from a previous file, just updated some edits from the client. It all worked well until I tried to update the cross-references. 

[Robert at ID-Tasker]

@misarango

Can you share your IDML file? Can be on priv if you prefer - please click my nickname.

Or, as a quick test - please change the extension - or add - ".zip" at the end - and check if it opens. IDML is a ZIPed archive. 

It probably won't tell you much what is inside - but at least will rule out corruption of the IDML file.

[misarango]

I tried changing the extension to .zip and was unable to open the file. Message said it was in an "unsupported format".

[Robert at ID-Tasker]

I tried changing the extension to .zip and was unable to open the file. Message said it was in an "unsupported format".

By @misarango

Then it looks like IDML file is corrupted. 

[Dave Creamer of IDEAS]

How did you try to open the renamed zip file?

[misarango]

I just double-clicked it in the folder. 

[misarango]

So, what you all are saying is there is no hope. 😞

[Robert at ID-Tasker]

So, what you all are saying is there is no hope. 😞

By @misarango

Can you share your file? Can be on priv if you prefer - please click my nickname.

[Dave Creamer of IDEAS]

I would siggest sharing both the .indd and the .idml files.